Scherzer, 29, led the AL in winning percentage and WHIP (walks and hits per inning) and ranked among the top five in ERA, innings pitched, and strikeouts. He also held opponents to a .254 on-base percentage and .583 OPS, the best of any AL starter.

Although postseason play did not count in the voting – ballots were due at the end of the regular season – Scherzer posted a 2.82 ERA in four playoff apperances, with 34 strikeouts in 22-1/3 innings. He – not 2011 Cy Young winner Justin Verlander – started Game 1 of the playoffs for the Tigers.

Nonetheless, Scherzer’s name has popped up in trade talks at this week’s meeting of general managers.

The Tigers are believed to be concerned about how much it might cost to retain Scherzer beyond next season, when he would be eligible for free agency. Scott Boras, the agent for Scherzer, generally prefers that his clients test the market rather than sign an extension that would take them out of free agency.